Austin, Texas – Today, State Representative John Raney (Bryan/College Station) was presented the Legislator of the Year award by Texas Advocates at their Annual Conference in San Antonio, Texas for his work in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Rep. Raney was the House sponsor of Senate Bill 753, relating to wage requirements for community rehabilitation programs participating in the Purchasing from People with Disabilities Program. This program, through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), has helped thousands of individuals with disabilities find work and currently employs over 6,000 Texans with disabilities; however, five out of 116 businesses contracted with the program were paying individuals with IDD sub-minimum wage. Senate Bill 753 prohibits the practice of paying sub-minimum wage by businesses contracted with the program.

“I am extremely proud to receive the Legislator of the Year award because it affirms that the work we are doing in Austin can have a positive impact on others. All life is valuable. Texans with disabilities have the desire to work, earn a living, and contribute to their communities. Earning less than minimum wage is not an opportunity, it is a burden. I look forward to continuing my support of the IDD community,” said Rep. Raney.

Texas Advocates is a nonprofit organization that is recognized as a leader in self-advocacy in Texas. Texas Advocates fights to stop unfair treatment and advocates for more and better services and support for people with disabilities.